More than 200K still without power across NW Indiana after deadly storms leave destruction
Two women died amid the severe weather in Gary and Portage.
PORTAGE, Ind. (WLS) -- Tens of thousands of homes and businesses across northwest Indiana are without power following severe storms this week.
ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch
It's slowing down the recovery effort as people pick up the pieces.
Over 260,000 NIPSCO customers were without power Thursday morning, the largest outage event in the utility's history.
SEE LATEST | Track power outages in your area with the ABC7 Chicago Power Outage Tracker
Two people died in the severe storms. In Gary, 58-year-old Paula Plebanski , a woman who was experiencing homelessness, died after being struck by roofing material.
In Portage, 86-year-old Leona Rice died in a house explosion.
However, despite the destruction, neighbors are showing up for each other.
In Portage, the American Legion Post 260 provided meals for those impacted by the storms while Portage Township leaders set up free shelter for people to rest and charge up their phones and medical devices.
The storm's impact is also affecting families preparing to return to school.
The School Town of Munster announced the first day of school for K-12 students has been postponed until at least Monday, Aug. 17.
SEE ALSO | School Closings: Chicago and NW Indiana Complete List
Food Distribution Locations:
The Salvation Army is hosting a meal distribution event at Portage High School from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or until supplies last.
Strack & Van Til grocery stores will provide free food from 11a.m to 7 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the following locations:
-St John - 9825 Wicker Avenue
-Hammond - 115 Sibley Street
-Highland - 9632 Cline Avenue
-Cedar Lake - 9605 Lincoln Plaza
-Portage - 6046 Central Avenue
-Valparaiso - 2800 N Calumet Avenue
